By Amy VanLiew

With all the rain we’ve had, Hidden Meadows is BEAUTIFUL this spring.    Lotus Pond is full again, everything is so green and the flowers are in full bloom.

Health isn’t just about exercise and eating right; it’s also about being happy and having less stress in your life.    Taking time to “smell the flowers” is a great way to de-stress.

My health tip this month is simple: experience spring mindfully by taking long walks through the ‘hood and noticing how green everything is. Even the oaks have fresh green leaves. The color green is soothing and comes in many shades. Think of the color wheel and don’t turn around until you find all six colors (yellow, orange, red, purple, blue green), plus white. And when you see wildflowers, pause and really appreciate these beauties. Touch and sniff–petals feel satiny, flowers have all sorts of scents, and all are especially beautiful backlit by the sun. Go in the morning when the air smells fresh. Citrus trees are in bloom now, and their fragrance is amazing.

For those who love an exercise challenge you can add this into your springtime adventure:

You see a Mountain Lilac (Ceanothus) in full purple bloom; do 10 squats or lunges

California poppy; reach up and stretch for the sun

Fruit Tree in Bloom; 10 jumping jacks or high knees

Any succulent blossom; 10 push-ups (be careful and find a clear spot) or just swing your arms back and forth

Dandelion, Daisy or Gazania; reach for your toes and relax into this stretch

Reminder:  I have a google map link to the Top Fitness Walks in Hidden Meadows on my Enjoy Life Page (amyvanliew.com/enjoy life)

I would love to hear from you, so send me a picture of all that you see in the neighborhood (my Instagram is @behealthyenough).   If you need any help with your fitness program or nutrition don’t hesitate to contact me at amy@amyvanliew.com or 760-310-8938.